The White Sox just got gifted an early Christmas present. ESPN’s Buster Olney reported that A.J Pollock has declined his $13 million player option for next season. He will receive a $5 million buyout and hit the free agent market instead.
Rick Hahn traded Craig Kimbrel for his services before the start of the season in the hopes that he would solve their problem in right field. Things never materialzed. Pollock batted .245 with 14 home runs, 56 RBIs, and a .681 OPS in 138 games. He played all three outfield different positions throughout the season.
The 35-year-old had a bad track record when it came to staying healthy. However, that wasn’t a problem during his short tenure on the South Side, which is why his lackluster production was incredibly disappointing. Pollock was just one season removed from being the most productive player on the Dodgers.
After a down season, Pollock opting out of his contract comes as a bit of a surprise. But it now gives the White Sox more financial flexibility to pursue other free agents.
A.J. Pollock is declining his $13m option for '23 with the White Sox. He receives a $5 million buyout instead, and now becomes a free agent.
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) November 8, 2022
This comes a day after the team announced they were not picking up Josh Harrison’s team option. The White Sox will now have an extra $8 million on their spending budget this offseason.
Rick Hahn cited Oscar Colás as a potential replacement for Pollock. Colás produced solid numbers through three different levels of the minor leagues last season. He hit .314/.371/.524 with 23 home runs and 73 RBIs. At age 24, he seems ready for a promotion to the big leagues.
Hahn also told reporters that trade was a more likely route than free agency when looking for players. The rest of the White Sox outfield consists of Eloy Jimenez, Luis Robert, Adam Engel, Gavin Sheets, and Andrew Vaughn. Adam Engel will likely be non-tendered.
Vaughn will likely shift to his natural position at first base, while Jimenez will occupy the designated hitter spot. As the team looks to improve its defense, Sheets is unlikely to see much time in the outfield next season.
It’s clear the White Sox needs to add another outfielder this offseason, whether it be Colas or an external option.
A good basic player but not clutch or a star.